Achieve a healthy glow without tanning beds: Tips from The Skin Cancer Foundation

by jmaloni

Submitted

Mon, Feb 10th 2014 10:35 am

As the
temperature drops and winter lingers, people are seeking ways to warm up their
dull winter skin. Taking a note from Hollywood A-listers, many are abandoning
the fake-baked looks achieved from UV tanning in favor of a more natural glow.

This is
an important and timely shift, as research shows melanoma incidence among young
women ages 18-39 has jumped an alarming 800 percent in the past 40 years.
Additionally, there is evidence showing just one indoor tanning session
increases users' chances of developing melanoma by 20 percent, and each
additional session during the same year boosts the risk almost another 2
percent.

This new
trend of natural radiance means having youthful and refreshed skin, not
wrinkles, age spots and a leathery appearance.

"A
glowing skin tone can be achieved through a healthy skin care and sun
protection regimen," said Skin Cancer Foundation spokesperson Amy Forman
Taub, M.D. "Adopting sun safety is a great way to keep your skin looking
youthful, and will help prevent future sun damage, which often presents itself
in the form of premature skin aging."

To help
brighten winter skin, Taub and The Skin Cancer Foundation offer these tips:

Protect Against Sun Damage

Sun protection is a crucial tool
in the battle against premature skin aging. The sun causes more than 90 percent
of the visible changes commonly attributed to skin aging. Since UV damage is
cumulative over a lifetime, it is something to be concerned about on a daily
basis. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends adopting a complete sun protection
regimen that includes seeking shade, covering up with clothing (including a
wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses), and wearing sunscreen daily with
an SPF of 15 or higher - applying about one ounce (a shot glass full) to all
exposed areas.

Shimmer Like a Pro

A proper
skin care regimen is essential when working toward a healthy, glowing
complexion. Follow this routine to help achieve glowing skin:

1. Start with a Morning Cleanse­ - Glowing
skin starts with proper cleansing in the morning, and remember, it doesn't have
to lather or foam to work. Many cleansing cloths, for instance, don't lather,
yet take all the effort out of face washing.

2. Smooth on a Serum - If using a
serum, try one with vitamin C, which has anti-aging benefits.

3. Apply Moisturizer with Sunscreen - Next, reach for a
moisturizer with an SPF of 15 or higher.

4.Prime the Skin ­- A primer
creates a smooth canvas for makeup.

'Go With Your Own Glow'

Through The Skin Cancer Foundation's "Go With Your Own Glow"campaign,
it strongly advocates embracing one's natural skin tone. The campaign
encourages women to love and protect their skin, whatever its natural hue. For
those who can't resist the bronzed look, but won't sacrifice their health to
achieve it, consider sunless (UV-free) tanners. They are available in many
different formulations, including creams, lotions, gels, pump sprays, aerosols
and wipes.